Karissa Kruse Wins Wine Enthusiast’s 2026 Wine Executive of the Year Award
We had a good feeling about this one. Now it’s official.
Karissa Kruse, co-owner of Dutton-Goldfield Winery and CEO of Sonoma County Winegrowers, has been named Wine Enthusiast’s 2026 Wine Executive of the Year, part of the publication’s annual Wine Star Awards.
When we shared her nomination earlier this fall, we were proud to see her work recognized. Today, we get to raise a glass to the win, and to the Sonoma County farming community she has spent years championing.
Good things grow from good farming
Karissa’s work reaches well beyond the vineyard, but farming is at its heart.
Under her leadership, Sonoma County reached 99% certified sustainable vineyard acreage. Through Farm of the Future, growers are working with technology partners to test new ideas in real vineyards, helping shape how the next generation will farm.
Her work through the Sonoma County Grape Growers Foundation has also supported vineyard employees and their families, including the Vineyard Employee Leadership Academy. Caring for a wine region means caring for the people who make it possible.
A celebration close to home
Here at Dutton-Goldfield, this recognition feels personal. Karissa and her husband, Steve Dutton, a fifth-generation Sonoma County farmer, bring a shared commitment to agriculture and community to the winery.
It’s a belief that runs through Dutton-Goldfield: expressive wines begin with thoughtful farming, and their stories are best shared with good company.
Karissa will be honored at the Wine Star Awards gala on January 25, 2027, in San Francisco. We’re starting the congratulations a little earlier. Probably with some bubbles and chardonnay!
From all of us at Dutton-Goldfield, congratulations, Karissa. We’re so proud to raise a glass with you.
Read Wine Enthusiast’s profile of Karissa: https://www.wineenthusiast.com/culture/industry-news/wine-star-awards/wine-executive-2026/
More people at the table
Karissa has also found fresh ways to introduce people to Sonoma County wine, including partnerships with the San Francisco Giants and organizations beyond traditional wine circles.
This year, she helped bring the region’s grower and winery communities together, with the new Sonoma County Wine membership program launching in January 2027.
“I’m proud of what we’ve built, and even more excited about what’s ahead for Sonoma County wine,” Karissa said in the announcement.
